Possible causes of agitation

Anxiety and agitation may be caused by a number of different medical conditions, medication interactions or by any circumstances that worsen the person's ability to think. Ultimately, the person with dementia is biologically experiencing a profound loss of their ability to negotiate new information and stimulus. It is a direct result of the disease.

Situations that may lead to agitation include:

Moving to a new residence or nursing home

Changes in environment, such as travel, hospitalization or the presence of houseguests

Changes in caregiver arrangements

Misperceived threats

Fear and fatigue resulting from trying to make sense out of a confusing world

Treating Behavioral Symptoms

Anyone experiencing behavioral symptoms should receive a thorough medical checkup, especially when symptoms appear suddenly. Treatment depends on a careful diagnosis, determining possible causes and the types of behavior the person is experiencing. With proper treatment and intervention, symptoms of agitation can be reduced.

Tips to help prevent agitation

To prevent or reduce agitation:

Create a calm environment.
Remove stressors. This may involve moving the person to a safer or quieter place, or offering a security object, rest or privacy. Try soothing rituals and limiting caffeine use.

Avoid environmental triggers.Noise, glare and background distraction (such as having the television on) can act as triggers.

Monitor personal comfort.
Check for pain, hunger, thirst, constipation, full bladder, fatigue, infections and skin irritation. Make sure the room is at a comfortable temperature. Be sensitive to fears, misperceived threats and frustration with expressing what is wanted.

Simplify tasks and routines.

Provide an opportunity for exercise.Go for a walk. Garden together. Put on music and dance.

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Say: May I help you? Do you have time to help me? You're safe here. Everything is under control. I apologize. I'm sorry that you are upset. I know it's hard. I will stay with you until you feel better.

Listen to the frustration.
Find out what may be causing the agitation, and try to understand.

Provide reassurance.
Use calming phrases such as: "You're safe here;" "I'm sorry that you are upset;" and "I will stay until you feel better." Let the person know you are there.

Involve the person in activities.
Try using art, music or other activities to help engage the person and divert attention away from the anxiety.

Modify the environment.
Decrease noise and distractions, or relocate.

Find outlets for the person's energy.The person may be looking for something to do. Take a walk or go for a car ride.

Check yourself.
Do not raise your voice, show alarm or offense, or corner, crowd, restrain, criticize, ignore or argue with the person. Take care not to make sudden movements out of the person's view.

See the doctor.
See the person with dementia's primary care physician to rule out any physical causes or medication-related side effects.

Share your experience with others.
Join ALZConnected, our online support community and message boards, and share what response strategies have worked for you and get more ideas from other caregivers.
https://www.alzconnected.org

We Can Help

Do you have questions or concerns about your loved one's changing behavior? The Alzheimer's Association is here to help.